The Misfits

Howe, James. The Misfits. 2001. 274p. 494 mins. ISBN 0-689-83955-3. Available at FIC HOW on the library shelves and as an audiobook on Overdrive.

Students who are different are often identified as misfits. But at this Middle School, five misfits have gathered together and they have formed the Misfits, a group of close friends who stand with each other and who discuss important life issues once a week at their favorite restaurant, the Candy Kitchen. Bobby has been friends with Skeezie, Addie and Joe his whole life, and as the fat kid of the group he really appreciate each of their quirks. Addie is the smart one who never shuts up. Skeezie’s ugly mug is very distracting, but he has a heart, and an appetite, beyond measure. Joe is gay and has the best fashion sense.

When Addie refuses to stand during the Pledge of Allegiance, these friends have no idea they are in for the ride of their lives. Angry at being made to stand, Addie wants to change the rules. Told to run for student council, she’s informed that she has to run either as a Democrat or a Republican, but she doesn’t identify with either party. She wants to create her own, but the system of government is set up with two parties. Can a group of dedicated friends challenge the establishment and, in the process, learn to stand up for themselves?